Poland Strengthens Naval Intelligence with Delfin-Class ORP Jerzy Różycki Launch

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Poland marked a significant milestone in its naval modernization efforts with the christening and launch of the ORP Jerzy Różycki, the first signals intelligence (SIGINT) vessel of the Delfin-class. The ceremony, held at the Remontowa Shipbuilding SA shipyard in Gdańsk, was attended by senior officials from Poland and Sweden, reflecting the international collaboration underpinning the project.

Delfin class. Remontowa Shipbuilding

The Delfin-class initiative stems from a 2022 agreement between Poland’s Armaments Agency and Swedish defense firm Saab AB. This contract outlines the construction of two SIGINT vessels, with Saab responsible for delivering and integrating the electronic reconnaissance systems. The partnership emphasizes a transfer of technological expertise and aims to bolster Poland’s defense autonomy by involving domestic industrial partners in the shipbuilding process.

Named after Jerzy Różycki, a Polish mathematician and cryptologist known for his role in breaking the German Enigma code, the vessel is designed to enhance Poland’s maritime intelligence capabilities. It will be followed by a second ship, the ORP Henryk Zygalski, also named after a prominent figure in cryptologic history. Together, these ships are expected to form the backbone of Poland’s maritime SIGINT operations.

The ORP Jerzy Różycki is based on the Swedish Artemis-class design and was developed by MMC Ship Design & Marine Consulting Ltd. in Gdynia. The vessel measures 74 meters in length and displaces approximately 3,000 tons. It is powered by four 990-kW diesel generators, azimuthal thrusters, and two bow thrusters, which provide enhanced maneuverability and positional accuracy. The ship will accommodate a crew of 35 to 40 personnel in modernized cabins.

While specific details of the onboard SIGINT systems remain classified, they are expected to include a comprehensive suite of capabilities such as electronic intelligence (ELINT), communications intelligence (COMINT), measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT), and imagery intelligence (IMINT). These systems are designed to intercept and analyze electromagnetic signals, including radio and radar emissions, and may incorporate artificial intelligence components to support data processing and analysis.

The vessel’s operational role will focus on intelligence gathering and data acquisition for both the Polish Armed Forces and NATO allies. Its deployment is intended to improve maritime domain awareness, particularly in the Baltic Sea region, and contribute to NATO’s surveillance and early warning infrastructure.

The launch procedure involved a floating dock, a method previously used for other Polish naval vessels. After the christening, the dock was submerged in stages to allow the hull to enter the water. Once afloat, the vessel was towed to the outfitting quay for further construction and system integration. Following Harbour Acceptance Tests (HAT) and Sea Acceptance Tests (SAT), Saab will install the specialized SIGINT systems. The ship is scheduled to be commissioned into service with the 3rd Ship Flotilla of the Polish Navy in Gdynia between 2026 and 2027.

The development of the Delfin-class ships reflects Poland’s strategic emphasis on enhancing its intelligence and surveillance capabilities in maritime environments. By investing in specialized platforms and leveraging international partnerships, Poland aims to strengthen its position within NATO and improve its ability to respond to evolving security challenges in the region.

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